Value of Ultrasound in Infertility

Gynaecological Ultrasound- Finding Out Your Options

Failure to Conceive

An ultrasound scan is a good first step to investigating why you’re not getting pregnant. When it is performed at the right time in the menstrual cycle it can check for abnormalities in the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. It also provides information about the function of the ovaries and womb lining (endometrium).

What happens next?

If the problem is due to a failure to ovulate regularly, medication such as Clomid can help stimulate the ovaries. In these cases we use ultrasound to monitor the follicles (eggs) from around Day 10-13 of the cycle and check that the ovary is not over-stimulated and at risk of multiple pregnancy.

Facts about Gynaecological ultrasounds.

Ultrasound involves high frequency sound waves being used to produce images of the interior of the human body. These images are displayed on a TV monitor and can then be transferred to paper or photographic film.

Ultrasound scanning is often used to examine conditions affecting the organs in a woman’s pelvis – the uterus, Fallopian tubes and ovaries. Ultrasound scanning is not dangerous and has no known side effects, so it is safe to use during pregnancy.

When should I have a Gynaecological Scan?

You are considered to have fertility problems when you’ve been trying for a baby for at least a year without success. By this point it’s a good idea to see a consultant and have a scan.